IDMA Joined WDC in Call for Change in Zimbabwe or “Face Consequences”

International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA) President Moti Ganz is calling for Zimbabwe to fully comply with the KP or else be expelled from the process Kimberly. The call follows a critical report issued by a KP review team and supports the position of the World Diamond Council (WDC).

“IDMA wishes to emphasize its unequivocal support for the WDC's position calling attention to the WDC's resolve that if the KP review commission's recommendations are not implemented and addressed in an acceptable timeline, a call for the suspension of Zimbabwe from the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme is the only route to follow," Ganz stated.

The KP review team investigated alleged human rights abuses in the Marange alluvial diamond fields in Zimbabwe. As a result of the report, the IDMA and WDC both reacted, calling for changes in Zimbabwe or else remove the country from the KP.

Ganz went on to link the issue of Zimbabwe with diamond-shopping behavior in a period of a global recession. He also stressed the importance manufacturers play in the diamond supply chain.

"Diamond manufacturers fulfill a crucial role in the diamond supply pipeline. We can and will not, at any time and under any circumstances, allow rough diamonds to be manufactured by our members, or by anyone else if we can help it, unless they have been sourced and purchased in compliance with the KP certification system. The diamond industry and trade is going through a very serious downturn and more than ever before, diamond jewelry consumers need to be absolutely confident that the diamond polished by us are indeed a significant means for growth, employment and prosperity in the regions where these diamonds were sourced," the IDMA president said.